Excitement, entertainment, and luxury – Just 90 miles from NYC sits one of the top destinations in the Sullivan Catskills, Resorts World Catskills.
If you’re looking for an overnight trip that promises to deliver a good time, read on as we take you through 24 hours of fun, food, gaming, and luxurious accommodations.
4pm Check-In at Resorts World Catskills
As you pull up to Resorts World Catskills, you can’t help but be in awe of the 18-story all-suite casino-hotel. Its all-window glass façade is designed, on sunny days, to display a photo-realistic reflection of its surroundings. The cloud reflections are a sight to see. And, whatever memories you have of the casinos your parents dragged you to as a kid, forget them. This is quite different.
Treat yo’self and valet – it’s only $15 for the night and they’ll grab your car should you need it. As you walk through the main doors, the music’s on and you can already feel the energy. Keep to your right, where the main lobby sits. It’s still early but there’s a buzz to the casino floor and people from near and far are checking in. People of all ages even families with little ones and teens.
The guest service agents are friendly and truly accommodating. Since it never hurts to ask, see if you can get a room on one of the top floors – the views are worth it. As you make your way to the elevators, you’ll pass the gift shop. Stop in or visit later. In addition to RWC merch, you’ll find some Woodstock memorabilia and local spirits.
The hotel itself has been open for a bit over a year so everything still feels really new. All 332-rooms are quite comfortable – suites range from 600-2000 square feet. The king bed is luxurious and the crushed velvet forest green seating area is cozy – complete with a Sullivan Catskills Travel Guide for your perusing pleasure. The bathroom is huge and the walk-in shower is a spa treatment all in itself. Later on, after you’ve had your fill of fun, undress and hop into bed. The bed, sheets, pillows – comfy, cozy, perfect for a good night’s sleep. If you’re someone who gets up in the middle of the night, you’ll love the light feature under the bed. No need to worry about bumping into anything or turning on a light – low lights come on automatically anytime you approach the floor.
Be sure to check out the “Events & Activities” sheet in your room as they offer great classes – cooking, mixology, yoga and more. Not sure how to play table games? They have a class for that too! You’ll also find their curated list of “Adventure the Area” featuring some of the top destinations in the Sullivan Catskills.
Before you head to dinner, stop by the Players Club for your rewards card. You’ll use it every time you play the slots or table games. Best part is you’ll earn reward points redeemable for dining, accommodations, spa treatments and more. The more points you accumulate, the higher your membership level and perks.
7pm Dinner at Cellaio
Bring your appetite and be ready to salivate. Cellaio, an Italian inspired steakhouse curated by the acclaimed chef Scott Conant, should be your top choice when visiting. Of course, there are plenty of other options but Cellaio is a culinary experience you don’t want to miss. Tables go quick, so be sure to make a reservation in advance.
As you walk past the glass case of 21 to 28-day dry aged beef, you’ll begin to notice the large array of wine – 500+ options to be exact. There’s a window which allows you to see into the kitchen – kind of cool if you’re a foodie. The ambiance is modern and sleek. If you’re lucky, you’ll score one of the cozy half-circle booths – a nice retro touch.
The moment you pick up the red leather incased menu, you’ll want to order everything. While you decide, enjoy the complimentary freshly baked bread served with eggplant caponata, broccoli rabe pesto and roasted garlic parmesan dipping oil. To start, order the Polenta Boscaiola – a creamy, silky polenta topped with smoky bacon, truffles, and mushrooms, perfect for sharing. For your entrée, consider the Lobster Pasta, a whole lobster served alongside house-made pasta; or the Skirt Steak grilled to perfection, served with a choice of one of five sauces. Add the Creamed Spinach as a side – the fontina cheese-creaminess is divine. Whatever you choose, be sure to save room for dessert. The Salted Caramel Budino is insanely decadent and worth every delicious sweet-salty bite. Their Tiramisu “Affogato” is a meal in itself – mascarpone mousse, honey crème fraiche, and espresso gelato; finished with a warm coffee chocolate sauce to die for…
9pm Casino Action
After dinner, hit the casino floor. If you’re overwhelmed on where to start, just go with what draws you in. Let the energy of the casino guide you. It’s a bit intoxicating and envy starts to settle in every time the winning bells go off. Truly a ton of fun and lots of anticipation waiting with bated breath to see if you’ll be a winner.
If you’re someone who likes to play it safe, stick with the slots and go for a nostalgic favorite – Willy Wonka, The Goonies, Wheel of Fortune. If you’re someone who likes to go big or go home – poker, baccarat, blackjack, craps, roulette, Texas hold ‘em – take your pick.
Depending on the night – there may be trivia, karaoke, a live DJ, comedian or a concert might be taking place. So, step out of your comfort zone and let loose a little. Have a drink at Bar 360 or head into Doubletop Bar & Grill to see what’s on the big screen. If you happen to work up an appetite or are craving something sweet, stop by 24/7 Bistro where you’ll find all the diner classics plus their signature boozy milkshakes – a fun way to end the evening (or to get it started).
9am Rise & Shine
Whether luck was a lady or not, there’s nothing like relaxing in the plush bed and taking in the views. Checkout is at 11am, so you have some time to spare. Order room service, take a lap in the indoor pool or work off that late night snack in the fitness center. If you’re looking to be pampered, Crystal Life Spa is the cure. You would never know you’re in a casino. From facials to massage, there’s a self-care treat just waiting to be experienced.
11am Casino Action – One Last Time
Once you’ve checked out, leave your bags with the concierge and head back into the action. This is a great time to get up the nerve and try something new. Talk with the friendly casino staff for any assistance you need.
1pm Lunch at Doubletop Bar & Grill
After you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Doubletop Bar & Grill. A great place for sandwiches, small bites and their signature Mac Attack – mac and cheese made seven different ways. You’ll even find local beer on draft and cocktails crafted from local vodka and bourbon.
2pm Take a Swing at Top Golf
Located right next door is The Alder, a sister hotel to RWC. There you’ll find Topgolf Swing Suite. Practice your golf swing, try your hand at hockey or test your throwing arm. You can even play zombie dodgeball. The atmosphere is chill and the bar is right there along with some great cantina-style Mexican eats. $20 gives you an hour of play for eight different game options.
4pm Departure
At this point, 24 exciting hours may have passed but is it time to go home? Whether you head to valet or decide to stay for the evening, take with you the sense of excitement the Sullivan Catskills has brought you at Resorts World Catskills. And be sure to plan your next visit to use those earned Player’s Club points as Resorts World Catskills is here to stay!
